Listen

Think

We like our presents to come in big boxes and pretty wrapping. Somehow we have come to associate size and appearance with value and worth. In “white elephant” gift exchanges at Christmas, people get to pick gifts without knowing who brought it or what’s inside. It’s easy to be lured by what we see on the outside when choosing. The best gift, however, does not always come in the prettiest paper.

Jesus was in no way the king they had expected. He was born in a stable, worked as a carpenter, and was homeless; yet, he was God in human form. His kingship was not about looking a certain way, flexing his muscles, or showing himself off at all, but about showing off God. His ministry included healing, helping, and sharing God’s love with others.

Those who choose to follow Christ strive to live as Christ did, to be the best possible representation of Christ in the world so that others might see him through us and welcome him into their lives as king.

Pray

I thank you, O God, for those who have shared your love with me by their witness and the examples of their lives. May I do the same for others so that they may know your love, your goodness, and your loving kindness, and knowing those things, desire to have a relationship with you for themselves. Amen.

Go

Do not fear going to Jerusalem or laying down your life for the sake of others. Jesus has made a way, shown us the way, and will be our way through.

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writer

Kathy Culmer

Kathy Culmer is an author, professional storyteller, speaker, teacher, and retreat leader. She offers storytelling performances and workshops for educational, religious, and corporate audiences. Kathy is the editor of Yes, Jesus Loves Me: 31 Love Stories, has traveled to The Gambia in West Africa as part of a biblical storytelling mission trip, and recently returned from a biblical storytelling pilgrimage to the Holy Land. She recently earned a Doctorate of Ministry in Biblical Storytelling in a Digital Culture.